Clients Zone
Every workplace has its own culture. Canadian workplaces may be different to what you are used to before. The easiest way to learn about culture specific or related matters is to observe and ask.
Here are some of the things to be aware of in the interview and on the job.
First Impressions Interview
Your first impression during the interview involves your smile, handshake, attire, personal space, and smell. Many workplaces no longer want or allow employees to wear perfume or cologne because others may be allergic or be sensitive to the smell. In general, daily showering is sufficient and welcomed.
Lying
Of course you want to get the best CV possible and make a good impression on your interview. But using wrong information about your work experience and educational could get you fired, deemed untrustworthy, and it won’t improve your self-esteem even if it makes you stand out to be much better on paper.
Table manners
Some interviews happen over lunch. This is an opportunity for the interviewer to see you in another environment. This isn’t the time for you to order the priciest item or relax with some drinks. If you’re not sure what to do, and watching others is not possible, eat with confidence. However, don’t try to correct your eating habits for an interview! In Canada we wait until everyone is served before we start eating.
Do not receive phone calls
If you forgot to turn off your mobile phone, turn it off when it rings and apologize. It’s considered rude to answer a phone call when you’re in an interview.
What chair should I sit on?
You usually wait until you are offered a chair when you enter the interview room. If this doesn’t happen, ask where you should be sitting. Don’t assume you know where they want you to sit. You might end up taking the chair of the interviewer, which is considered rude.
Answer the interview questions
The interview is your opportunity to market yourself. Not answering a particular question won’t help you in the interview. Usually, you will be given time to ask questions and / or add information that you think is relevant. Make sure to keep your answers reasonably focused and brief. Monitor the interviewer’s body language for clues about your condition.
Thanks for this interview
You’re expected to send a short thank you letter via mail or email after the interview. It’s also a good way to add anything you forgot to say in the interview.
Phone messages
It’s a good idea to have a voicemail service on your phone so that work or friends can leave messages for you if you’re not available. Your personal voicemail message should be clear and say nothing that you might feel embarrassed about. When leaving a message for someone else, be sure to leave your phone number and name. Speak slowly enough that the recipient has time to write it down and has no excuse not to call you again!
Email names
If your email reflects your spirit and individuality but does not suit everyone, it may be best to have two different email addresses. Some email addresses are right for your friends, but not for work. The most popular email address is with a difference in your name is appropriate for your CV.
Eye contact
When you talk to someone, maintaining eye contact is respectful. If you’re having trouble with this, visualize an eye in the middle of their forehead and talk to it. People will not be able to tell the difference.
Appropriate introductions about the job
You’re expected to introduce the people you know to the people you talk to. If you forget someone’s name, apologize. It is important to know that someone’s surname is only used together with their last name.
Punctuality
If you have an appointment to meet with someone or a group of people and are unable to attend, don’t assume you won’t miss it. It’s polite to let the person (s) know that you cannot be there as quickly as possible. Try not to ever be late for meetings, especially for interviews or review of your performance.
Mind your own business
Although it is usually best to be friendly with co-workers, don’t ask directly about sensitive topics, such as personal health matters or sexual activity, unless they bring it up first. If your co-worker shares details that make you uncomfortable, change the topic.
Greeting co-workers
When you see your co-workers for the first time in the day, you’ll want to offer a greeting (for example, “Good morning!”). It’s not then necessary to welcome them every time you see them, although in some cultures it may seem rude not to do so.
Dealing with other employees
It’s best to maintain good relations with employees at all levels. If someone is treating you badly, you can assume they’re having personal problems and forgive them. This is only true the first time. The second time, you need to handle the situation calmly, courteously, but directly.
If the abuse persists, you may want to discuss it with a supervisor or the Human Resources department, or learn more about workplace discrimination.
Dealing with the boss
Bosses are generally treated a little more formally than others in your workplace. You may have to make appointments to discuss things with your boss, while you can often talk to your co-workers anytime.
Multicultural dealings
If you think you will be dealing with people from another culture who need a different set of manners, you might want to do some research on what is expected. The internet makes this research very easy, and it may help you manage embarrassing or unfamiliar situations.
